Indian physical disability cricket team completes 5-0 sweep of Sri Lanka

India Today

05-05-2025

The Indian Physical Disability Cricket Team concluded a dominant campaign in the PD Deepaka Lohia Memorial Trophy 2025 with a clean 5-0 series win against Sri Lanka, in a tournament that showcased not only competitive excellence but also the spirit of inclusivity and the growing stature of disability sport in South Asia.Jointly organised by the Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI) and Wilspoke Sports and Entertainment, the series was played at Kini Cricket Ground, Bengaluru, from 26 April to 5 May, drawing strong support from players, partners, spectators, and disability rights advocates.advertisementIn the final match held in Bengaluru, India won the toss and chose to bat, setting a mammoth target of 191 for 5 in 20 overs. The Indian batters displayed remarkable composure and flair, giving the home side complete control. In response, Sri Lanka were bowled out for just 88 in 15.1 overs, sealing a commanding victory.
Narendra Mangore was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance in the final. Ravindra Sante was adjudged Player of the Series for his consistent contributions throughout the tournament.History made in Bengaluru!The Indian Physical Disability Cricket Team clinches a 5-0 clean sweep against Sri Lanka in the T20 series. Pride of the nationyour spirit inspires us all! @BCCI @ICC @OfficialSLC @mansukhmandviya @JayShah #PDTeamIndia #DisabilityCricket #INDvsSL pic.twitter.com/mgV98IIzDk— Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (@dcciofficial) May 5, 2025advertisementThe victorious Indian team received a cash prize of Rs 2,00,000, while the Sri Lankan team was awarded Rs 50,000, along with trophies in recognition of their commendable participation.The closing ceremony was graced by Mr Dhruv Prabhakar, Ms Isha Prabhakar, and Mr Vikram Singh (Head of Marketing) from Gopalan Group, along with Mr Nishanth AJ (Founder and CEO - Wilspoke Sports and Entertainment). Their presence at the final reflected the growing corporate enthusiasm for supporting differently-abled athletes and inclusive sporting platforms.Mr Ravi Kant Chauhan, General Secretary of DCCI, said: "This clean sweep is a proud moment for Indian disability cricket. Our players have shown the country what true grit and discipline look like. This victory is not just a series win-it's a step forward in making disability sport part of mainstream sporting culture."Squadron Leader Abhai Pratap Singh, Joint Secretary of DCCI, added: "The PD Deepaka Lohia Memorial Trophy stands as a symbol of opportunity, equality, and excellence. This series has reinforced that athletes with disabilities deserve equal platforms, and our team has once again made the nation proud. We thank Sri Lanka for their spirit and sportsmanship."Mr Nishanth AJ, Founder & CEO of Wilspoke Sports and Entertainment, said: "At Wilspoke, we believe sport is a universal language that must include everyone. This series has been a testament to the talent and emotion that PD sport carries. We're honoured to have been part of this historic initiative and will continue pushing boundaries for inclusive sport in India."advertisementThis tournament not only demonstrated the rising standards of physical disability cricket in the region but also underscored the importance of partnerships between federations, corporates, and community stakeholders in driving forward the inclusivity agenda.As the PD Deepaka Lohia Memorial Trophy 2025 concludes, the message echoes loud and clear: disability is not inability-and these athletes are here to inspire, compete, and lead.